Reflections and dancing fountains: Plaza Salcedo

Named after the Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo, Plaza Salcedo is both the city’s central attraction as well as its town center. Much like any old Spanish settlement, Plaza Salcedo is surrounded by all of the places you’ll need to visit in Vigan: the town hall, regional hall, local shopping center, and the church.

It was supposed to have four sunken gardens which would represent the four seasons in western countries: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. The lagoon, where the fountains are located, was built in 1970 and serves as a reservoir in response to what was then a turmoil-filled Vigan City.

One of the most significant events to happen at Plaza Salcedo was the execution of Gabriela Silang by public hanging in September 1973. Gabriela Silang was the first woman leader of the Philippine revolution.

It’s not as large as, say, Rizal Park, though it has its own monument to honor the man recognized as the country’s national hero. At the middle of the park is the 17th century monument of Juan de Salcedo, the oldest of its kind in Northern Luzon.

The dancing fountains start at 19:00 every night, and take place every 30 minutes. It’s a light and sounds spectacle that always gathers crowds, especially tourists. Photographers also love Plaza Salcedo as it makes a great foreground for when they take photos of St. Paul Cathedral.

No need to worry about coordinating with a tour guide or paying any fees as Plaza Salcedo is a public park.